David Fisher unofficially became Middletown's newest town councilman Feb. 12, when no challengers filed to run against him for the seat formerly held by two-term Town Councilman Charles Dixon, who did not seek re-election. A resident of Middletown for nine years, the father of four was officially sworn into office on March 4.

Q What convinced you to run for Middletown Town Council?

A I have been involved with the Middletown Public Safety Commission for four years and it's been a wonderful experience. When I learned there would be an opening on the council with Councilman Dixon retiring, I felt this would be another great opportunity for me to give back to the community.

Q Why do you think none of the council races were contested this year?

A I think that is a testament to the outstanding job our mayor and council have done.

Q What do you see as the most pressing issues facing Middletown in the next two years?

A The problems facing Middletown mirror those facing the state – how to continue providing the same high level of services in these challenging economic times. We have an obligation to make sure the roads are safe, trash is picked up, the power stays on, the parks are clean and attractive – things we often take for granted – and are always faced with the possibility of diminishing state funding and other revenue.

Q What do you believe makes Middletown a great community in which to live, work and raise a family?

A The people. Anyone can walk into any store in Middletown and have a great conversation with our local owners and workers. We have a thriving local arts community with the Everett Theatre, The Gibby and the Premier Centre for the Arts. I can go to a parade or the Peach Festival and see the whole community turn out for the event. I see the community giving back during our annual Relay For Life and Big Ball Marathon. It's the people that make the difference here and I'm very proud to be a part of that.

MORE ABOUT FISHER

AGE 45

HOMETOWN North Wilmington

FAMILY Wife, Susan; Sons, Ryan, Joey, Jack; Daughter, Grace

EDUCATION Concord High School, Class of 1986; bachelor's degree in criminal justice from the University of Delaware, 1991

WORK HISTORY Vendor manager with Bank of America; 22 years with MBNA/Bank of America

PRIOR POLITICAL EXPERIENCE None

FAVORITE TV SHOW "The Office"

HOBBIES I enjoy fishing, rehabbing old furniture, playing music during Middletown's summer events and spending time with my family